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2016 graduates: Zack Skubiz — Steamboat grad heads to Transylvania

Teresa Ristow
Zak Skubiz is looking froward to attending Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, after graduation from Steamboat Springs High School.
John F. Russell

— Zack Skubiz has come a long way since he was a freshman at Steamboat Springs High School four years ago.

“I was very, very shy,” Skubiz said. “My best friend moved away in sixth grade and I kind of shut down.”

And despite being very bright and identified as an advanced learner, Skubiz struggled with reading and was placed on an individual education plan, known as an IEP.



“I was never really good at reading and putting my thoughts together,” he said.

But over his four years at the school Skubiz has found ways to overcome both his social timidness and his learning struggles.



“He’s overcome a lot of challenges and was able to shine and show his strengths through the challenges,” said Monica Feagler, Skubiz’s counselor.

Skubiz found ways to put himself out there — getting involved in the chess club, Knowledge Bowl, Future Business Leaders of America and drama club, the last of which really helped Skubiz come out of his shell.

In his classes, Skubiz worked hard and was ultimately taken off the IEP, excelling in a variety of courses in many subjects.

“He has an amazing curiosity,” Feagler said.

Skubiz has also kept busy outside of school, including through an internship at the law firm Contafio Hammond P.C., where he spends about six hours each week.

He files paperwork and asks a lot of questions or the firm’s attorneys.

In the fall, Skubiz will head to Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, a school he selected somewhat at random or perhaps for its unique name.

Skubiz smiles when Feagler said the school sounds like a perfect fit for him.

“I’m a really big nerd,” Skubiz said. “A really goofy person.”

He plans to major in economics and earn minors in business and computer science, good choices for his future plans to become a attorney, Skubiz said.

“The bar association recommends an economics major,” said Skubiz, who plans to return to Colorado for law school and the bar exam after he earns his undergraduate degree.

To reach Teresa Ristow, call 970-871-4206, email tristow@SteamboatToday.com or follow her on Twitter @TeresaRistow


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